McLaren reveals race-prepped 650S GT3

Following in the footsteps of the MP4-12C GT3, McLaren has unveiled the race-ready 650S GT3 at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Powered by the automaker’s ubiquitous 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, the 650S GT3 produces “around” 500 horsepower — less than the road-going 650S, but identical to the MP4-12C GT3. Putting the power to the ground is an all-new six-speed sequential manual transmission, while the 650S gains a number of additional race-ready powertrain tweaks, including a new ECU that allows control over turbo boost and transmission shifts, as well as better cooling through larger air intakes up front and on the side.

The McLaren 650S GT3Handout /
McLaren

Chassis tweaks include a carbon fibre tub and body, and the 650S GT3 receives the requisite suspension and braking upgrades to take on endurance racing. The 650S GT3 also benefits from thoroughly improved aerodynamics, including a larger front splitter and a towering rear wing. McLaren says the 650S GT3 also receives wider tires and measures 55 millimetres wider than the 12C GT3.

McLaren also says 15 copies of the 12C will be built before hitting race tracks next year. Like the jump from the road-going 12C to the 650S, McLaren will also offer existing 12C GT3 owners an upgrade package to bring their cars up to par with the 650S GT3.